Meetings in Ohio by H. A. St. John

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Dec 16, 1875

Meetings in Ohio.

By H. A. St. John

From Oct. 27 to Nov. 1, I held meetings with the church in Mendon, Mercer Co. No minister had visited them for about four years. Several who once obeyed the truth had become discouraged, and given up. It appears that a large and strong church might have been formed here if labor had been bestowed two or three years ago. An interest to hear, on the part of the public, was manifested at the commencement of our meetings which continued till the close. I think that a course of lectures would result in greatly strengthening the church in numbers and spirituality. The number of members at the beginning of our meetings was nine—increased to thirteen. The number paying Systematic Benevolence was nine—increased to twenty. The amount of S. B. was $81.80—increased to $129.61. Organized a Sabbath-school consisting of sixteen members; baptized one; ordained a deacon; celebrated the ordinances; tried to interest all to take hold in working for Christ in the T. & M. Society; and gave such instruction to clerk and S. B. treasurer as we thought necessary to enable them to do their business right.

From Nov. 4 to 9, I held meetings with the Defiance church. Here we had free use of the new Christian church, which was very acceptable and convenient. This society also needed help very much. Some, with tears of repentance, confessed that they had been almost on the point of giving up the truth; but our meetings resulted very encouragingly. Our last was one long to be remembered because of the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. The number of members at the beginning of our meeting was ten—increased to twenty. They had not reported any S. B. for the past two years, although some had been paid irregularly; but S. B. was organized, number paying, twenty-eight, amount $84.76. Organized a Sabbath-school of thirty members; baptized two; celebrated the ordinances; and gave instruction to church clerk and S. B. treasurer. Others, I think, will join their number soon. I left them much encouraged.

From Nov. 10 to 16, had meetings with the church in Bowling Green. These were laborious meetings, and, although we did not see all accomplished that we desired, yet we feel assured that a good work was done. Bro. O. Mears, the elder, rose above his discouragements, and resolved to take hold in the strength of the Lord and bear the responsibilities placed upon him. Another deacon was ordained. Organized S. B. for 1876. This is the largest church in our Conference, and they have ever done a noble part in bearing burdens. We long to see them striving together for the faith of the gospel.

In all of the above meetings we have endeavored to enlist the youth and children in the service of the Lord, and to induce them to pay S. B. We think that children and youth should have a part and an interest in casting into the treasury of the Lord. Brethren in Ohio, let us have your prayers and co-operation. H. A. St. John.